For More Information:

Romina Avram; Coordinator, Youth Development Programs; RominaA@jfcs.org; 650-688-3056

On the Mark Mentoring

Everyone needs a friend to lean on. That's what the "On the Mark" Mentoring Program is all about: providing support and encouragement to young people ages 8 - 18 by matching them with caring adult and high-school-aged mentors. Once volunteer mentors are recruited, screened, and trained, they are matched one-on-one with a student. They make a minimum commitment to volunteer for six months. Mentors receive ongoing support and training during the school year. Pairs meet at least once a week for an hour, at Parents Place or off-site as agreed upon by the mentor, the young person, and his/her parents. Activities may range from a visit to a museum or library, a walk on the beach or through a neighborhood, or an outing to a concert or movie. This allows for fun, engaging, and educational meetings.

The Benefits

Mentoring activities enrich and expand the relationship, building trust and friendship. The impact of a mentoring relationship should not be underestimated; evaluations and feedback we have received from program participants indicate that mentors effectively assist in raising student's self-esteem, confidence, sociability, and scholastic performance.